When asked about the special Monday fresh/soph lunch get together run by Mr. Lopez known as Chat and Chew, Grace Chubb, class of 2017, said, “It gives me the opportunity to talk about current events, stay updated with the world, and to form and express opinions.” Chat and Chew is a casual weekly lunchtime gathering of students to discuss current events, feminism, and absolutely anything on their minds. “It’s rad,” said sophomore Erin Dodson. “We can talk about social issues that are ignored in other environments.” Under the guidance of Mr. Lopez, students from both sophomore and freshman classes have found a space to voice their opinions and hear the opinions of their classmates.  What makes Chat and Chew different from a class or club is that students dictate the flow of conversation. There is rarely a set agenda for these lunch time discussions; conversation flows freely while students debate the topics that matter to them most.

As Americans, we have freedom of speech, but at Chat and Chew we are granted the privilege of having someone to listen to us.  As young people, we often feel as if our thoughts and ideas go largely unnoticed.   We also often fail to recognize that our classmates may well be experiencing those same thoughts and feelings.  In Chat and Chew, open dialog allows students to remedy this in finding their voices while having a rare opportunity to truly hear the voices of others.  Every day we recognize our fellow students for their abilities in the classroom, on the sports field, and in the arts, but rarely do we get a glimpse into their intellectual and philosophical opinions. Chat and Chew provides a place where this is possible

Past Chat and Chew discussions have included the portrayal of women in media, advice for freshmen, and discussions on popular literature. So if you have something to say, (which I know you all do) or if you just want to hear some spirited debate, join us at Chat and Chew during fresh/soph lunch mods on Mondays!